Message from Stephanie
As we welcome the arrival of June and summer weather, I hope you are getting some time to enjoy this lovely season in our community.
There are several important matters before the legislature. Our healthcare system continues to face challenges from this government’s poor decisions. In my role as the Ontario Liberal Rural and Agricultural Critic, I questioned the government’s abrupt decision to close the Minden Hospital ER. This will undoubtedly have a detrimental impact on both residents and visitors. My colleagues and I have spoken about the warning this sends about the future of rural healthcare and the trend it will set for communities across Ontario, including Don Valley West.
Another pressing issue is the potential harm that Bill 97 poses to our farmers and food supply. This legislation threatens to undermine the livelihoods of our hardworking farmers, jeopardizing the stability and accessibility of our local food sources. Farmers have spoken out against this Bill, and now this government has begun to back away from some of its proposals. This progress further highlights the importance of speaking up and actively engaging on these issues, as it can force this government to do what is right for the people of Ontario.
Recently the Financial Accountability Office released a report entitled Women in Ontario’s Labour Market. The findings are disheartening, revealing that women still earn only 87 cents for every dollar men make, a disparity that has persisted for over a decade. Shockingly, the report indicates that a mere 2 cents of the 13-cent wage gap can be attributed to occupational composition, meaning that 11 cents are directly attributed to wage inequality. We must continue to work towards a more equitable society where everyone is afforded equal opportunities and fair compensation.
On a brighter note, I had the opportunity to attend numerous events in our community, such as spring and school fairs. These gatherings provide an excellent chance to connect with constituents like you and listen to your concerns and ideas. I am grateful for our fruitful discussions so far, and I look forward to many more engaging conversations in the next month.
Thank you to those who take time to speak to me and share your ideas. As always, I encourage your active participation and feedback. We can create positive change and foster a community that thrives on inclusivity, transparency, and fairness. Stay tuned for updates and further opportunities to contribute to essential discussions on healthcare, agriculture, gender equality, and more.
I wish you a delightful June filled with warmth and fun.
Sincerely,
Stephanie Bowman